Defenders of Animals to host annual vigil, honor 'Humane Heroes'

Posted
Wednesday, August 9, 2017 1:15 pm

On Aug. 19, Defenders of Animals will hold its annual Humane Heroes Award Ceremony as part of the Homeless Animals Day/Candlelight Vigil at the Governor Sprague Mansion, located at 1351 Cranston St. in Cranston.

The ceremony will be held outdoors – moving indoors in the event of rain – from 7 to 9 p.m.

“The Homeless Animals Day/Candlelight Vigil is held in conjunction with the International Society for Animal Rights campaign and serves as an opportunity for animal advocates from around Rhode Island to band together on a special day and jump-start new spay/neuter/adoption campaigns while rekindling existing programs in their communities that raise awareness about pet overpopulation,” said Dennis Tabella, director of Defenders of Animals.

The group lobbies on legislative issues, coordinates a pet placement service, offers a low-cost spay and neuter program and does legal work through the organization’s attorney, Mark B. Morse.

“We have worked very closely with Attorney Mark B. Morse on many meaningful and successful cases involving animal issues. The legal work is an intricate component of Defenders of Animal,” said Tabella. “We can’t do it without the consistent help of members and volunteers. We have been fortunate to always have had outstanding and dedicated volunteers.”

A total of eight awards will be given out at the event to honor individuals for going above and beyond for the sake of all animals: Assistant Attorney General Mark Trovato, Volunteer Michelle Marie Rose, Warwick City Council President Joseph Solomon, Warwick City Council Rep. Jeremy Rix, Warren Town Council President Joseph A. DePasquale, Warren Town Council Vice President Keri M. Cronin, Animal advocate Trudy Pisaturo and Former Warwick City Council Rep. Carlo Pisaturo.

“Our mission statement is to defend the inalienable rights of both companion animals and wildlife through education, legal and legislative activism, and it is, indeed, a functional mission statement,” Tabella said.

Musical entertainment will be by “Scarlett,” which is a three-piece acoustic/electric band playing a diverse range of hits and other favorites, including classic rock, modern rock and country.

“We have been fortunate to always have had outstanding and dedicated volunteers and legislators that were willing to consider introducing humane legislation both on the state level and local level,” said Tabella.